Neuromodulator Therapy – Denver & Lone Tree

Botox® and Dysport® (and Xeomin®) and belong to a class of medications called Neuromodulators. In addition to these, another neuromodulator called Purtox® is currently seeking FDA approval. Neuromodulators are a safe and very common method of smoothing out facial wrinkles. In fact, Botox® and Dysport® are the most popular cosmetic treatments in the United States. In 2010, 5.4 million of treatments were performed, which is up nearly 600% since 2000!

Botox® and Dysport® are commonly used in the face to treat wrinkles. However, not all types of wrinkles will respond to these medicines. Only wrinkles formed by repetitive motion are affected by Neuromodulators. Typical areas include frown lines, crow’s feet, forehead and the downturned corners of the mouth. Besides cosmetic uses, other uses for Neuromodulators include:

Treatment of excessive sweating

Migraine headaches

Synkinesis (a complication from Bell’s Palsy)

Blepharospasm (uncontrolled twitching of the eyelid)

Facial muscle spasms

How do Neuromodulators work?

Neuromodulators are proteins that work by causing muscles to relax. The protein is placed directly into the muscle and prevents the release of chemicals that cause muscle contraction. The effect of this is muscle relaxation, which allows wrinkles in the overlying skin to melt away!

What is the difference between Botox® and Dysport®?

There is very little difference in these medications. They both exhibit the same effectiveness, duration of effect, low potential for side effects and high patient satisfaction rate. Dysport® has been shown to spread out a bit more in the tissues, which is usually beneficial, but can theoretically lead to more complications.

Are Neuromodulators safe?

These medications are extraordinarily safe. The most common complications from Neuromodulator therapy include a small bruise at the treatment site, relaxation of the eyelid or asymmetry of the areas that have been treated. Of these, a relaxed eyelid is the most concerning for patients. It has been noted in up to 3% of patients and might last for 1-2 weeks. If this problem does occur, eyedrops can be used to correct the position of the eyelid until it resolves.

What should I expect after treatment?

Neuromodulators do not take effect immediately—the effect begins 3-5 days after treatment. At that point, the wrinkles will begin to fade away over a week or two. Keep in mind that wrinkles formed over decades of life and won’t go away overnight. For deep wrinkles, more than one treatment may be required. The effects of Botox® and Dysport® last about 3 months. For that reason, the best results are achieved by repeating treatment every 2.5 months so that the wrinkles won’t start to come back. Other patients have used Neuromodulator treatments for special events in their lives (weddings, special parties, family reunions, interviews, etc).